Cosmetology and Personal Grooming: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Students in this program gain comprehensive training in the art and science of personal grooming and beauty enhancement, preparing for careers in a dynamic, client-focused industry. The curriculum emphasizes both technical proficiency and professional standards, equipping learners with the skills needed to deliver high-quality services in diverse settings.
- Facial and Skin Care Techniques: Mastery of skin analysis, cleansing, exfoliation, and treatment protocols to promote healthy, radiant skin.
- Hair Styling and Cutting: Hands-on instruction in modern cutting methods, styling, and shaping techniques for all hair types and textures.
- Nail Care and Enhancement: Training in manicure and pedicure procedures, including gel, acrylic, and natural nail care.
- Makeup Application and Artistry: Development of skills in cosmetic application for everyday wear, special events, and photographic purposes.
- Client Consultation and Image Consulting: Learning to assess client needs, recommend personalized services, and build lasting professional relationships.
- Safety, Sanitation, and Health Regulations: Understanding of hygiene protocols, infection control, and compliance with state and national licensing standards.
- Business and Professional Practices: Foundational knowledge in salon operations, customer service, marketing, and career advancement strategies.
Cosmetology and Personal Grooming Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Cosmetology and Personal Grooming Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Cosmetology and Personal Grooming degrees, including Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 295,460 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists 39-5012 | $35,250 | $24,580 - $70,220 | 295,460 | $16.95 |
Salary Comparison
Cosmetology and Personal Grooming Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $23,470 in Louisiana to $58,920 in Washington—a 151% difference. The highest-paying states include Washington, Hawaii, and Vermont. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 295,460 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Cosmetology and Personal Grooming by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 91 institutions offering Cosmetology and Personal Grooming programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Cosmetology and Personal Grooming is found at Celebrity School of Beauty (188 graduates), Paul Mitchell the School, Little Rock (129 graduates), American Institute of Beauty (AIB) (107 graduates), Hollywood Institute of Beauty Careers (90 graduates), and Beauty Academy of South Florida (84 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 2,497 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Cosmetology and Personal Grooming programs
How much can I earn with a Cosmetology and Personal Grooming degree?
Salaries for Cosmetology and Personal Grooming graduates vary by role and location. Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists earn a median of $35,250 annually. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in Washington average $58,920 compared to $23,470 in Louisiana. Approximately 295,460 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Cosmetology and Personal Grooming programs?
Currently 92 accredited institutions offer Cosmetology and Personal Grooming degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Celebrity School of Beauty (188 graduates), Paul Mitchell the School, Little Rock (129 graduates), and American Institute of Beauty (AIB) (107 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
Is enrollment in Cosmetology and Personal Grooming growing or declining?
Graduate numbers have increased over the past decade, rising from 2,076 in 2010 to 2,497 in 2023-24. This represents a 20% increase overall from 2010.
The field remains specialized with steady interest, though opportunities are most concentrated in major metropolitan areas with active arts scenes like New York, California, and Illinois.
Graduate enrollment data from IPEDS, 2010-2024 academic years. Trends reflect reported completions at participating institutions.
What career paths are available with a Cosmetology and Personal Grooming degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists. Related occupations employ approximately 295,460 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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